Introduction
Thomas Charles Beirne KSG (1860–1949) was an early businessman, politician and philanthropist in colonial and federation era Australia.
Early life
Thomas Beirne was born on 9 July 1860 in County Roscommon at Ballymacurly, near Ballymoe. He migrated to Melbourne on the Lusitania in February 1884. A series of business ventures saw him establish a successful drapery business in Brisbane, Queensland.
Business life
In Brisbane Beirne became an active member of the Brisbane Traders' Association, including its president in 1901. He was also a board member of Brisbane Tramway Co, Australian Mutual Provident Society, the Atlas Assurance Co and the British Australian Cotton Association.
Politics
He was also involved in the early stages of the Australian Labour Party and from 1905 till 1922 he was a member of the Queensland Legislative Council.
Benefactor
Beirne was Warden of the University of Queensland and in 1935 donated £20,000 to establish the TC Beirne School of Law.
He was also a benefactor of Holy Name Cathedral, Brisbane, the Pius XII Regional Seminary at Banyo, Mater Misericordiae Hospital and Duchesne College in the University of Queensland.
He was awarded a papal knighthood of the Order of St Gregory by pope Pius XI and was a close associate with politicians William Higgs and Frank McDonnell and was friends with Archbishop James Duhig.
Later life
Beirne died in 1949. His funeral, which was presided over by Archbishop James Duhig, was held at St Stephen's Cathedral and proceeded to the Nudgee Cemetery. Despite his generosity during his lifetime, he left an estate of over £1.24 million which was mainly bequeathed to his five daughters and numerous grandchildren.
Legacy
Thomas Beirne is remembered today by:
- T C Beirne Park, a park that once formed part of the grounds of his Hendra home, Glengariff
- TC Beirne Department Store, now the T C Beirne Centre, a shopping center in Fortitude Valley
- TC Beirne School of Law at the University of Queensland
A number of buildings associated with Thomas Beirne are listed on theQueensland Heritage Register, including:
- his home Glengariff in Hendra
- his retail premises TC Beirne Department Store
- accommodation built for his staff Bulolo Flats